Practical Ways Seniors Can Keep Their Mind Sharp

Many seniors are concerned about their cognition as they age. They may notice changes in their thinking or frequently misplace their glasses and car keys. It’s very common for older adults to experience memory lapses as they age. Just as the physical body changes with age, the brain is also affected by age. Nerve cells in the brain can shrink and synapses between cells can become lost. The brain’s volume gradually shrinks with age and blood flow within the brain can slow.

It’s important for seniors to combat these age-related

changes in their brain by engaging in mentally stimulating activities. Studies have found that a variety of mental stimuli can promote brain health in older adults. As we head into spring, here are four practical ways seniors can keep their mind sharp.

Stimulate the Senses

An easy way to keep your mind sharp is to stimulate the senses through sensory engagement. Sensory engagement is the practice of using a variety of materials and activities to stimulate the senses. Use natural moments in your day to engage your senses. Before you sip your coffee, pause to breathe in the aroma. Feel the warmth of the mug and observe the way your creamer mixes with the coffee. Close your ways and savor that first sip. You can also stimulate your senses as you go for a walk around your neighborhood. Take in all the sights, smells, and sounds of the spring season.

Play a Card Game

Playing cards can improve both short-term and long-term memory, as well as enhance executive control in older adults. The more challenging the game, the more beneficial it is to a senior’s cognitive health. But seniors shouldn’t overlook the simple card games either. Games, such as Solitaire and Go Fish, may seem easy. However, they still require some strategy and recollection.

Modify Your Routine

Many seniors live the same old routine, day after day. While routines can be beneficial to older adults, never varying one’s routine can cause the brain to run on autopilot. A practical way to keep your mind sharp is to modify your routine. Change the order in which you get dressed or brush your teeth with your non-dominant hand. Take a different route to the grocery store or reverse the direction of your neighborhood walk. This keeps your brain guessing and keeps you more present in the moment.

Keep a Journal

Recording your thoughts and daily activities have major health benefits. Writing allows us to process and retain information, keeps creativity flowing, and has meditative benefits. It can even improve your mood as you write about gratitude. Start simple by committing to writing for 15 minutes, twice a week, or end your day by taking five minutes to record three things that you’re thankful for, for that day. As you write, focus on what you are thinking and feeling. In doing so, you’ll engage both the logical and creative hemispheres of your brain.

Another way to keep your mind sharp is to partner with Visiting Angels Southlake. Our compassionate caregivers can keep you engaged and challenge you to a friendly card game. They can help you learn new technology or encourage you to spend a few minutes journaling while they fold laundry. To learn more about our exceptional senior home care services, please contact us today by calling 817-684-1996.